Managing diurnal changes in rumen pH of cattle grazing fodder beet

Posted on Jan 1 2019 by Sam Le Gallou

This project aims to quantify rumen pH changes in cattle who are grazing fodder beet crops.

This will allow for greater understanding of managing intake dynamics and manipulating the rumen to optimise its function.

High water soluble carbohydrate (sugar) feed sources such as fodder beet, predispose cattle to low rumen pH conditions.

Little is known on the extent of rumen pH fluctuations in these cattle who are grazing fodder beet over the long-term. A greater understanding of rumen conditions will direct methods of pH manipulation to optimise rumen function.

Key methodology:

Work within existing fodder beet research project on farm trial sites (5) throughout south east of South Australia.
Rumen pH loggers and/or rumen cannulations for rumen fluid sampling.

Study production animal health

While his primary work is in the genetic improvement of beef cattle, Professor Wayne Pitchford has also supervised projects in sheep, goats, pigs and deer.

Potential honours projects also exist in the discipline areas of reproduction, meat quality, lamb density, feed efficiency, physiology, animal behaviour and welfare, walk-over-weigh technology, development of statistical methods, forage crop breeding, systems for developing countries, social science, participatory extension, and social media.

Professor Pitchford has good co-supervisors who are closely linked with industry. He always attempts to develop projects that suit your interests and career goals.